Letting Go of Control and Chasing Big Verdicts with Christopher Newbern

What does it take to bet on yourself in one of the highest-risk areas of law? In this episode of The Founding Partner Podcast, Jonathan Hawkins sits down with Atlanta trial attorney Christopher Newbern to unpack the mindset behind massive verdicts, high-stakes litigation, and building a law firm without relying on traditional advertising. Chris shares why he left insurance defense, how he developed the confidence to try difficult cases, and why learning to trust your instincts matters just as much as learning the law. From $42 million verdicts to the pressure of running a boutique trial practice, this conversation is an honest look at fear, growth, and what it really means to believe in your cases. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Challenge of Letting Go Inside a Growing Law Firm 02:00 Meet Christopher Newbern and Newbern Law Firm 04:10 Why Chris Started in Insurance Defense 07:15 The Mindset Shift That Changed His Career 10:55 What Makes a Jury Believe a Case Is Worth Millions? 17:20 Inside the $42 Million Motorcycle Verdict 20:15 Why Difficult Cases Often Become the Biggest Wins 24:35 The Power of Asking for Opportunity Early in Your Career 28:05 Negligent Security Cases and Georgia Tort Reform 33:40 Adapting a Law Practice When the Industry Changes 41:10 Building a Reputation Through Trial Results Instead of Advertising 45:05 The Realities of Running a Small Trial Firm 48:30 Why Delegation Is So Difficult for Founders 50:20 Marketing Through Verdicts and Relationships 54:05 Chris’s Advice for Young Trial Lawyers 56:00 Why Every Client Interaction Matters